Barbara-Anne Moss Joins Take advantage of Lamb Pilot

EXCLUSIVE: CBS’ untitled Take advantage of Lamb drama pilot is constantly assemble a thrilling-star cast. The Matrix star Barbara-Anne Moss is positioned since the female lead opposite Dennis Quaid and Michael Chiklis inside the project put together by Goodfellas author Nicholas Pileggi and Greg Master and directed by James Mangold. Occur the sixties, the drama tales the actual story of Take advantage of Lamb (Quaid) rodeo cowboy switched longtime Sheriff of Las vegas – and Johnny Savino (Chiklis), a Chicago mob fixer whose business vision for altering Las vegas collides while using law-and-order mandate of Sheriff Lamb. Moss may have A.D.A. Katherine O’Connell, the daughter from the local rancher who had been elevated a neighbor for the Lamb which is now cutting her teeth inside the D.A.’s office. Pileggi, Mangold, Master, Trina Konrad and Arthur Sarkissian are executive creating the CBS TV Art galleries-produced pilot, with Quaid and Chiklis co-executive creating. Moss, who recently recurred round the final season of NBC’s Chuck, will next be viewed within the qualities Knife Fight and Quiet Hill: Thought 3d. She's with WME, Hodgson Management and attorney Robert Lange.

Media Stocks Down As Fear Of Global Economic Downturn Spreads

Barring a last-minute turnaround, this could be the worst day for U.S. stock exchanges since November. The U.S. Media Index is -1.7% in mid-afternoon trading, worse than the Dow Jones Industrial Average and Standard and Poor’s 500, both -1.5%. Buyers are concerned that Greece may default on its debt if private investors fail to approve terms of a restructuring deal. On top of that, today saw weaker than expected economic reports from Brazil and China. Among Big Media companies,CBS was hardest hit (-3.3%) followed by News Corp (-2.6%), Viacom (-2.4%), Sony (-2.3%), Disney (-1.9%), Time Warner (-1.9%), and Comcast (-1.1%). Media companies down 4% or more include Imax, AOL, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia,and Netflix. Only one meaningful media company seemed positioned to possibly record a gain today: Dish Network hovered around +0.03%.

Pilot Season: Heroes Alum Hayden Panettiere Joins ABC's Nashville

The Walking Dead [Warning: This story includes major spoilers about AMC's The Walking Dead as well as the comic series it originated from from.] AMC may have just spoiled what might use function as worst-saved TV secret of 2012. Round the AMC website early Thursday, The Walking Dead's second season exclusive edition Blu-ray set have been promoted. One problem: The item's description incorporated a substantial spoiler, providing the bonus features include "Shane's last episode." Works this suggest Jon Bernthal's character will rapidly meet his demise? The Walking Dead Boss: Lori has become Lady Macbeth Bernthal's future round the zombie drama has existed question since his character, the progressively hot-headed former deputy, died in Problem 6 in the comics that the series relies. Meaning Bernthal's version has extended outlived his comic-book counterpart. Additionally, news that Bernthal reaches talks for Frank Darabont's new TNT pilot only elevated fans' accusations the television series Shane would soon be described as a goner. "You understand the Shane character was destroyed off inside the comic very, very early," Walking Dead executive producer Glen Mazzara recently told TVGuide.com. "We are a show that's prone to surprise people. People can speculate. I have not see the Frank script, but it is imaginable that Bernthal's character can get offed because [TNT] pilot. I have avoid seeing clearly. So I'd rather not say anything about secrets or spoilers or anything such as this, however think fans will be pleased with our story, and i'm just likely to give consideration to that particular, not other material." By Thursday evening, the site happen to be shut lower (you will see an image in the site below). "The publish round the AMC store was completely unauthorized," an AMC representative mentioned in the statement. "The issue is presently under analysis." Hold the clues that Bernthal might be departing the series destroyed the summer season to suit your needs? Hit should be genuine along with your ideas.

Exclusive: Shawn Pyfrom Returning to Desperate Regular folks

Shawn Pyfrom Dana Delany, Kyle MacLachlan and Andrea Bowen aren't really the only ones returning on Wisteria Lane: Shawn Pyfrom is positioned to return inside the final cases of Desperate Regular folks, TVGuide.com has learned exclusively. See the relaxation of current day news Pyfrom, who shows Bree's (Marcia Mix) boy Andrew, will reemerge in Episode 18 in the final season getting a sizable announcement. While particulars are scarce about what he'll be revealing to dear old mother, let's just say all things have certainly changed since he's been away. We last saw Andrew in Season 7 while he fought against with alcoholism before finally acknowledging to Carlos (Ricardo Chavira) he'd freshly freshly mowed lower his mother getting an automobile. Desperate Regular folks airs Sundays at 9/8c on ABC.

Keck's Exclusives: The Fonz Gets Up

Henry Winkler Ain't this cool? Former Fonz, Henry Winkler, is being eyed for the role of Ava's father,Robert, on NBC's Up All Night."We're excited about Henry Winkler, and Maya Rudolph [Ava] just adores him," says the show's executive producer, Emily Spivey.While Ava's mama was nutso, Spivey says Robert is "the more grounded and warm, loving parent. Even though he's flighty and a little irresponsible, he's a creative type who writes children's books. Henry, in the roles he's played, exudes a warmth and whimsy, which is why we thought of him."In real life, Henry has authored the successfulHank Zipzer series of children's books, which was news to Spivey. "No way! I had absolutely no idea," she said when I clued her in. "I can't wait to talk to Henry." Look for the character to debut in late April/early May, while Ava's mother, who tends bar in Florida and lives with a musician, would debut in Season 2.Subscribe to TV Guide Magazine now!

Trippin' to yesteryear

If last year's best picture race in the Academy awards ended using the triumph of history ("The King's Speech") within the here-and-how ("The Social Networking"), the present contest has selected sides in the beginning, with Academy people casting their votes for movies that with excitement idealize bygone days.From the nine best picture nominees, only "Moneyball," "Very Noisy & Incredibly Close" and "The Descendants" occur these days, as well as individuals films, to 1 degree or any other, ruminate over styles of legacy, history or a period when, say, a scrappy team such as the Concord A's could challenge the mighty Yankees for baseball supremacy.Yes, Woodsy Allen's "Night time in Paris" starts in modern occasions, but the majority of the film concentrates on the magical outings that it is Allen stand-in, a film writer named Gil (Owen Wilson), takes in time for you to a Jazz Age Paris where he meets the kind of Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein. Gil has lengthy imagined of just living during this slice of history, and individuals around him deride him for his longing."Nostalgia is denial, denial from the painful present," lectures Paul, an old flame of Gil's girlfriend. "The reputation for this denial is Golden Age thinking, the erroneous notion that the different period of time is preferable to the main one a person's residing in. It is a flaw within the romantic imagination of individuals individuals who find it hard to deal with the current.InchAnd, yes, Paul is really a world-class bigmouth, but he's a place, one which Allen themself makes late within the film when Gil and the 20's French girlfriend skip to the Belle Epoque era. "I am in the '20s, and I am suggesting the golden age is la Belle Epoque," she informs Gil, much to his dismay.Another movies nominated for the best picture -- "The Artist," "Hugo," "War Equine," "The AssistanceInch and "The Tree of Existence" -- will also be strongly implanted with nostalgia, and, as Paul might argue, originate from places of discomfort or uncertainty with modern occasions. Contrast the current-day images of the brooding Sean Penn held in a steel city in "Tree" together with his idyllic memories of the childhood put in the truly amazing Outdoors. "The AssistanceInch tidily takes note of past civil privileges triumphs, possibly an simpler task than analyzing the racial problems that exist today.The rest of the trio turn their gaze inward toward the medium itself. Steven Spielberg styled "War Equine" around the epic films of John Ford and Victor Fleming, its outsized music, visual grandeur and languid pacing remembering classical Hollywood. "The Artist" and "Hugo" return even more, honoring the first times of cinema at any given time when movie film cameras and celluloid is near extinction."We all do lovingly think back at quiet cinema, it's correct,Inch states 'Artist' author-director Michel Hazanavicius. "However the movie is actually in regards to a guy who finds themself from the overall game. Technologies have transformed and left him behind. And that is relatable now, no?"Relatable, yes. Knowing in the nostalgic late of best picture nominees, it appears that, yes, Academy people can appreciate the man's dilemma.Eye around the Academy awards: Best Picture PreviewTrippin' to yesteryear Moody key art set tone for kudo challengers Poster children for any year of reflection, uncertainty Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

N.Y. TV Fest adds development partners

The NY Television Festival, heading into its eight year, Friday introduced nine development partners due to its 2012 edition this fall including IFC, MTV and VH1. IFC, which acquired approaching series "Bunk" in the 2010 fest, has grew to become part of MTV and VH1 as award sponsor for your Pilot Competition which is seeking comedy distribution due to its third annual Because they are award. MTV is trying to find animated and live-action comedies and VH1 for unscripted formats due to its VH1 Creative Lab "Theory of Creativity" Award with a development deal. The growing festival is striving being the Sundance of television -- identifying independent creative talent and fostering connections with systems, art galleries and kinds. It unspools March. 22-27 at Tribeca Cinemas as well as the 92YTribeca in lower Manhattan. Sundance Funnel, SevenOne Intl., Bio Funnel, Logo design design, Hasbro Art galleries and Funnel 4 have signed onto take pitches and guarantee a noticable difference deal each for starters producer. Hasbro might be the very first partner inside the children's entertainment category. Funnel 4 might be the very first worldwide network partner. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

The the spanish language language Trailer For Red-colored-colored Lights Online

Weaver! P Niro! Murphy! Excelente!We're large fans of Hidden around here, so there's some anticipation for Rodrigo Cortes' next film. It's stood a mixed reception from people who've seen it up to now, along with the relaxation people, there's this worldwide trailer for your dark thriller Red-colored-colored Lights to clue us in on what you should expect.In the minimum, it's amusing to find out Sigourney Weaver, Robert P Niro and Cillian Murphy named in to the the spanish language language.What is happening? Well, P Niro can be a world-famous celebrity medium who's strangely leave retirement, thirty years after apparently abandoning seances. Weaver and Murphy are scientists considering the paranormal. Their queries lead them to P Niro, whose supernatural qualifications they think being dubious. And Elizabeth Olsen may also be on-hands as Weaver's assistant.Shades of previous spooky thrillers get this appear just a little familiar - we're sure we view that vehicle-abruptly-stopping-for-creepy-lady-with-trolly shot plenty of occasions before - but oddly, it seems to offer the distinct look of Hidden about its colour pattern, even though Hidden happened entirely within the coffin.Millennium have just selected this up for distribution at Sundance, so expect British-language trailers and several release dates before too extended.

Jerry Yang leaves Yahoo up in mid-air

YangThompson The departure of Yahoo co-founder Jerry Yang opens a whole lot of new options for your unhappy Internet content giant, but very hard fixes. The surprise exit stunned the areas and pressed Yahoo shares greater in after-several hours purchasing and selling. Yang's exit--that's apt to be then an exodus of others round the company's board--was conveyed in the letter released Tuesday through the organization from board chairman Roy Bostock, who may be one of the alongside go. "After I leave the business I co-founded nearly 17 in the past, I am passionate in regards to the appointment of Scott Thompson as boss and also the ability, along with the whole Yahoo leadership team, to influence Yahoo right into a thrilling and effective future." Yahoo hired Thompson captured after several days without any Boss and among constant gossips the organization was up available. Yang happen to be pilloried by traders, numerous whom blamed him for botching a possible takeover by Microsoft previously too for creating confusion about his role lately in discussions with potential partners. That report on partners is for certain to develop once again since Yahoo could certainly set itself up for your kind of acquisition Yang never saw fit to greenlight or maybe a shopping spree that belongs to them. Private equity finance finance groups are actually kicking their tires since the ouster of Boss Carol Bartz a year ago, and so they could come knocking again without or with congloms prepared to possess a controlling interest, for instance Microsoft. But experts also provide noted that Yahoo may want to stay independent and grow by considering making proper purchases getting a scale in a position to altering the business. Potential targets that have been stated in recent days include Netflix, WebMD as well as the Weather Funnel. An amount much more likely major move that Yang might possibly not have cottoned to can be a divestiture, with Yahoo's Asian assets prone to speculation the spinoff could return around $11 billion to company coffers. But it's also achievable that Yang's exit is less about objections over being bought, buying or selling, plus much more an optimistic alternation in opinion in regards to the proper direction of Yahoo. The business remains extended belittled for missing focus given its interests are dispersed across a number of areas from mobile to connected TV. The appointment of Thompson, formerly of PayPal, has cranked up concerns that Yahoo will push into e-commerce, the completely new CEO's specialty area. That may draw attention away from one of the handful of locations that Yahoo has undisputed leadership: online content. Yahoo is either first or second in 11 different content groups, where its characteristics are competitive with famous labels from CNN to ESPN. The business has moved heavily into original video programming within the last 12 several days, most recently introduced a venture with Tom Hanks, it hopes might help drive advertising revenues in comparison having its massive traffic figures. Yang steps lower removes within the boards of both Yahoo and subsidiaries Yahoo Japan and Alibaba. He'll still retain a 3.8% stake within the organization. Yang co-founded Yahoo in 1995 with David Filo and needed it public in 1996. He's offered included in the Board of Company company directors since March 1995 to ensure that as Boss from June 2007 towards the month of the month of january 2009. "Jerry Yang can be a visionary together with a pioneer, which has brought enormously to Yahoo throughout his many years of service," mentioned Bostock. Jill Goldsmith brought with this story. Contact Andrew Wallenstein at andrew.wallenstein@variety.com

Kutcher Wants to Return to 'Two and a Half Men'

PASADENA, California (AP) A clean-cut Ashton Kutcher said Wednesday that he's interested in continuing with "Two and a Half Men" beyond this season and CBS wants him, too.Kutcher's addition to television's most popular comedy following star Charlie Sheen's implosion was a grand experiment that has worked out better than CBS or the producers could have dreamed.The show is up 20 percent in viewers over Sheen's final season, the Nielsen ratings company said, and Kutcher has also brought in a younger crowd."I've had a blast," said Kutcher, who plays the heartbroken Walden Schmidt. "Since I stopped doing 'That '70s Show' I've always wanted to go back and do television."Kutcher appeared at a news conference without the long hair and beard he has worn this season. It was cut as part of the plot in an episode of "Two and a Half Men" that airs Monday, he said.Kutcher will be working on movies after filming for this season of "Two and a Half Men" concludes, but "right now I'm looking at it as a hiatus," he said.CBS would have to strike a new deal with actors and producers to continue the show beyond this season. All parties seem interested in working it out, CBS Entertainment President Nina Tassler said."In spirit and intent, everybody is very motivated," she said.Series creator Chuck Lorre said he gave thought to ending the series after Sheen left last season and couldn't imagine it continuing. But CBS and his co-creator, Lee Aronsohn, nudged him to continue."Lee said, 'Why not try? If we fail, no one would be physically harmed,'" Lorre said. "It seemed like such a heartbreaking way to end, and we didn't want it to, so we said let's keep the light on."Writers were able to change the tone by making Kutcher's character a heartbroken Internet billionaire who has everything he wants except the woman he loves. Jon Cryer, who played Sheen's annoying little brother, is now Schmidt's older friend. It was all a welcome tone change, Aronsohn said."It's been a lot of fun and a challenge to create a different show with a lot of the same elements," he said.Lorre, who was the target of sharp barbs from Sheen last spring after he was fired, said he wished his former star well."I really do," he said. "I'm glad he's sober and I think it's terrific."Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. By David Bauder January 12, 2012 PHOTO CREDIT Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images PASADENA, California (AP) A clean-cut Ashton Kutcher said Wednesday that he's interested in continuing with "Two and a Half Men" beyond this season and CBS wants him, too.Kutcher's addition to television's most popular comedy following star Charlie Sheen's implosion was a grand experiment that has worked out better than CBS or the producers could have dreamed.The show is up 20 percent in viewers over Sheen's final season, the Nielsen ratings company said, and Kutcher has also brought in a younger crowd."I've had a blast," said Kutcher, who plays the heartbroken Walden Schmidt. "Since I stopped doing 'That '70s Show' I've always wanted to go back and do television."Kutcher appeared at a news conference without the long hair and beard he has worn this season. It was cut as part of the plot in an episode of "Two and a Half Men" that airs Monday, he said.Kutcher will be working on movies after filming for this season of "Two and a Half Men" concludes, but "right now I'm looking at it as a hiatus," he said.CBS would have to strike a new deal with actors and producers to continue the show beyond this season. All parties seem interested in working it out, CBS Entertainment President Nina Tassler said."In spirit and intent, everybody is very motivated," she said.Series creator Chuck Lorre said he gave thought to ending the series after Sheen left last season and couldn't imagine it continuing. But CBS and his co-creator, Lee Aronsohn, nudged him to continue."Lee said, 'Why not try? If we fail, no one would be physically harmed,'" Lorre said. "It seemed like such a heartbreaking way to end, and we didn't want it to, so we said let's keep the light on."Writers were able to change the tone by making Kutcher's character a heartbroken Internet billionaire who has everything he wants except the woman he loves. Jon Cryer, who played Sheen's annoying little brother, is now Schmidt's older friend. It was all a welcome tone change, Aronsohn said."It's been a lot of fun and a challenge to create a different show with a lot of the same elements," he said.Lorre, who was the target of sharp barbs from Sheen last spring after he was fired, said he wished his former star well."I really do," he said. "I'm glad he's sober and I think it's terrific."Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Mark Harmon Says Hes Ready To Tangle With Jamie Lee Curtis On NCIS

First Published: January 11, 2012 9:54 PM EST Credit: Getty Images Caption Mark Harmon, Jamie Lee CurtisLOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Jamie Lee Curtis is gearing up to shake things up both romantically and professionally for Mark Harmons Leroy Jethro Gibbs on NCIS later this season. We havent touched on his personal life in awhile and were about to introduce a woman thats going to get people going, show boss Gary Glasberg told AccessHollywood.com on Wednesday at the Television Critics Association Winter Session 2012, when asked about future plans for the popular character. Just look for Jamie Lee Curtis. So far, the actress has signed on for two episodes, and it appears that there will be a some sort of spark between Curtis unnamed character and Harmons Gibbs. Were prepping that episode right now. Shes coming into our world from a very unique government perspective and she will spar with him in ways that people arent used to, Glasberg told Access. The show boss noted it is a case that brings the two characters together, and unlike some of the other women that have come across Gibbs path like Lauren Hollys Jenny Shepard the two wont have a history. Its gonna be fun, Glasberg smiled. Shes really excited about that. When asked about Curtis coming to the NCIS fold as a romantic interest by Access, Harmon turned to his boss. A love interest? Is that what I am now with Curtis? Harmon asked Glasberg. Theres a spark, Glasberg chimed in. Harmon, whose Gibbs character has led the NCIS team for (most of) nine seasons on CBS, said he hasnt shot any scenes with Curtis yet, but he is looking forward to reuniting with his former Freaky Friday co-star. Jamies great and I think were all glad that shes coming to play with us in our little sandbox for a while and shes fortunate to have [Glasberg] creating the character shes playing, he said. But I look forward to it, absolutely. Before that happens, NCIS has another road to travel when the show celebrates its 200th episode. Set to air on February 7 on CBS, the special episode will take a look at what could have happened if different decisions were made by the characters over the years. Glasberg said Holly isnt coming back for the episode, but he smiled and said to watch when a reporter asked if Sasha Alexander (who played Kate) would return for the special. He also said the 200th episode will feature many eye-catching moments. Theres very much an Its A Wonderful Life quality to this story, Glasberg said in response to another reporters question. People should watch this episode multiple times because theres so much crossing and appearances that happen, that I highly recommend the DVR to be turned on. The show boss told Access that no one from JAG, the show which spawned NCIS, would appear. That, I can tell you, isnt happening, but a lot of people that go way back in the history of NCIS [are in the episode], Glasberg said. Im not going to give you names, but there are heroes as well as villains. Nine seasons in, NCIS has battled to the top of the television ratings, and it show no signs of stopping even threating to take out Gunsmokes record for most years on the air for a dramatic television show (a record shared by Law & Order). Were certainly going to give it a try, Glasberg said during the TCA panel when asked about taking over the record of 20 years. I like the idea of riding a horse if were gonna do that, Harmon chimed in. Well all ride that horse with you, Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo) added. Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Hugh Jackman as Harry Houdini: Actor to experience Magician in Broadway Musical by Aaron Sorkin

Hugh Jackman is actually using this stage factor seriously. Based on Deadline, the actor is placed to experience Harry Houdini within an approaching Broadway musical compiled by Aaron Sorkin. Obviously, Jackman isn't any stranger to singing -- he just finished a ten-week run of his one-guy show, 'Hugh Jackman, Back on Broadway,' and it is set to star within the approaching adaptation of 'Les Miserables,' together with Russell Crowe, Hathaway As Catwoman and Sacha Baron Cohen. So, why a Houdini musical? Because the 'Wolverine' star (hey, remember if this guy performed a poor-ass mutant?) confesses, he's "been deeply intrigued through the existence of Harry Houdini since [he] was youthful." Jackman already described a magician within the 2006 film, 'The Prestige.' So, imagine: 'Prestige' + 'Hugh Jackman, Back on Broadway' = 'Houdini.' [via Deadline] [Photo: Getty Images] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Nets focus their wares at winter TCA

Kiefer Sutherland returns to Fox while using new series 'Touch.'NBC's musical drama 'Smash' debuts the following day from the Super Bowl.HBO's new equine-racing series, 'Luck,' stars Dustin Hoffman.ABC's midseason records are the new drama 'The River.'NBC gets the most at risk having its midseason efforts, but all of the broadcast nets will probably be battling to obtain that promotion since the semiannual dog-and-pony show known to as Television Experts Assn. tour begins its winter gathering in Pasadena on Wednesday. Running through Jan. 15, TCA starts getting a 2-day presentation by PBS just before the television stations begin their parade, while using nets keen to convince journos their approaching series will be the next large factor.NBC, along with ABC, gets the most midseason shows to tout. Though the Peacock in the more difficult predicament in comparison to resurgent Alphabet, network topper Bob Greenblatt are available in sales rep mode, marketing NBC's new shows that includes a lot in danger. The web showed up to fall wealthy in wants "Prime Suspect" and "The Playboy Club," because both versions were canceled, and comedies "Whitney" and "Up With The Evening," which have completed adequately but been definately not breakouts.Now, nothing is much more essential this midseason to NBC than returning reality skein "The Voice" and rookie drama "Smash" -- premiering the evening of and then day's the Super Bowl, correspondingly -- while using idol idol judges and casts from both series on stage to produce awareness. "The Firm," using the John Grisham novel, is another major component of NBC's midseason sked, as well as the internet thinks Jason Isaacs starrer "Awake" would bring in sci-fi auds that will not have began to NBC formerly.To tubthump its options, the Peacock will throw a evening time soiree round the CalTech campus Friday just before the NBCUniversal cablers dominate the TCA tour on Saturday.Next is Fox, which will use gain some traction for newbie series and Kiefer Sutherland starrer "Touch," "Bones" spinoff "The Finder" and "Alcatraz," from professional producer J.J. Abrams.While network leader Kevin Reilly needed an even more reasoned approach within the summer season TCA in Beverly Slopes in regards to the new fall shows, Simon Cowell told participants he then expected "The The American Idol Show ShowInch-like amounts for "The X Factor." That clearly put "X Factor" inside the crosshairs of TV journos. Understanding that, Reilly will most likely have confidence selling his new wares and can not oversell.With Monday dedicated to ABC's kids, news and daytime divisions, Paul Lee will need happens Tuesday loaded confidently carrying out a very healthy fall. Alphabet is doing well with drama hits "Revenge" and "Not such a long time ago" additionally to comedy newcomer "Suburgatory."Midseason records for ABC include three dramas -- "The Stream,Inch "GCB" and "Scandal" -- and comedy "Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23." Internet may even give a comedy showrunner panel, with "Modern Family," "The Middle,In . "Suburgatory" and "Happy Being," additionally to some panel dedicated to "Desperate Regular folks,Inch which will sign off in May.CBS makes TCA since the most effective broadcast internet and doesn't cash to supply in midseason. Although prexy Nina Tassler could get onstage and merely crow in regards to the Eye's perf -- "two and a half Males" relaunched itself since the top comedy in general audiences and "2 Broke Women" looks to become long-term player -- Tassler, with little not used to promote, has made a decision not to engage participants inside an professional session.Corporate siblings and siblings CW and Showtime will share Jan. 12 before cable shuts the festivities Jan. 13-15. Cinemax, in the rare morning session in addition to forgoing an professional panel, will tubthump numerous new series. Pay cabler is loaded with lots of heavyweight talent of display, including Dustin Hoffman ("Luck"), Nicole Kidman (telepic "Hemingway & Gellhorn") and Erection dysfunction Harris and Julianne Moore, who play John McCain and Sarah Palin inside the TV movie "Game Change."Other cable sections that could generate interest and could prove lively discussions include "Dallas" on TNT, Kevin Smith's "Comic Males" for AMC and Louis C.K.'s sitdown for his self-titled Foreign exchange skein. Contact Stuart Levine at stuart.levine@variety.com

AFTRA, music labels set talk date

Discussions between ballroom dancers for music videos and record labels will resume Jan. 11-12 following a six-month break. The American Federation of Television & Radio Artists, which reps the ballroom dancers, made the announcement Thursday evening. AFTRA also offers scheduled a Jan. 6 rally before The new sony Music offices in Beverly Hillsides to aid the ballroom dancers. Board member Jason George and ballroom dancers Teresa Espinosa and Dana Wilson are going to speak. The moves come two several weeks after AFTRA came a lot more than 160 ballroom dancers and choreographers to some standing-room-only "Now It's Time" forum in North Hollywood to exhibit support for that unionization move. AFTRA's current deal on its seem recording contract includes a contract through the labels to bargain for any music-video agreement to exchange a contract discussed in 1986. AFTRA negotiator Randall G. Himes complained in the October event that whenever a settling session on June 21, labels had delayed in reacting to AFTRA's proposal and setting dates for additional talks. AFTRA contended the 1986 agreement is outdated, particularly with ad-supported streaming services, music videos producing growing revenues. The "Now It's Time" campaign, released with a number of videos to coincide using the MTV Video Music Honours at the end of August, requires an agreement which includes safety, fair pay, residuals and health insurance and retirement benefits. Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

Oprah Winfrey: Dedicated To OWN Despite Rocky First Year

First Published: December 29, 2011 5:09 PM EST Credit: Getty Images LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Caption Oprah attends the Costume Institute Gala Benefit to celebrate the opening of the American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 3, 2010 in NY CityOprah Winfrey earned the rare opportunity to convert her media charisma into a monogramed TV channel. Now shes the one tasked with rescuing OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network, after a disappointing first year. Its a high-stakes, potentially ego-shattering challenge that could make the strongest woman or man flinch. But win or lose, Winfrey says she relishes the fight to turn OWNs fortunes around. Yes, some mistakes were made. Who hasnt made mistakes? The real beauty is you can say, I learned from that, Winfrey said. I dont worry about failure. I worry about, Did I do all I could do? The cable channel, which marks its first year Jan. 1, is trying for a fresh start after executive turnover and missteps that proved OWN lacked a solid foundation on which to build, this despite a Discovery Communications investment of a reported $250 million and counting. Viewers snubbed the lineup that skimped on programming and, surprisingly, what should have been OWNs unique weapon of choice: Winfrey herself, whose limited on-air presence will be boosted Sunday with a new weekly series, Oprahs Next Chapter. OWN has failed to improve on, or in some instances even match, the modest ratings and small audience earned by the low-profile Discovery Health channel it replaced. I would absolutely say it is and was not where I want it to be for year one, Winfrey said. My focus up until (last) May was doing what I do best, which is The Oprah Winfrey Show, and giving that my full attention until its conclusion. But Winfrey, who said management team errors in planning and execution could serve as a cautionary tale (I was never interested in writing a book. THIS could be a book), rejects the idea that a single years performance will determine OWNs ultimate fate. Or hers. Somebody was talking to me in that kind of saddened, How are you? tone, and I was thinking, Im fine, said Winfrey, 57, who ruled as the queen of daytime TV until she ended her talk show after 25 years and turned her attention to the channel. I realized the reason people have this tone is theyre reading all the press (about OWN), so you see me and wonder if I can still walk. I am a determined and committed woman. I dont give up. Im just getting started, she said in a recent interview. One bonus of being Oprah: She has received pep talks from other media movers and shakers. Everybody has told me Ted Turner has told me, Barry Diller has told me, Lorne Michaels has told me, David Geffen has told me anybody whos ever worked with a channel, whos ever done anything, has said it takes three to five years, she said, adding, You have to do the work. You do not have to pay attention to the criticism. Year two for OWN will reflect executive changes made last July, when Winfrey expanded her role at the channel by adding the roles of chief executive and chief creative officer to her position as chairman. Discovery Communications COO Peter Liguori had filled in as interim head after OWN CEO Christina Norman was dismissed in the wake of poor ratings. Although the channels ownership is split evenly between Discovery and Winfreys Chicago-based production company, Harpo Inc., it is Discoverys money thats on the line. With more scheduling consistency, movies, original series with and without Winfrey, and a lot more Oprah in general, Discovery is a lot more confident that were heading in the right direction, said company spokesman David Leavy. Sheri Salata and Erik Logan, two veteran Harpo executives, were brought on board to share the title of OWN president, with Logan moving from Chicago to OWNs Los Angeles headquarters. Logan said he clearly understands the hard work in establishing any cable channel, and this one in particular. One of the greatest gifts and challenges is to have her name on the door, Logan said of his top boss. Everything you do garners a high level of scrutiny and attention. We dont run from that. The initially slight programming lineup is being beefed up, most notably with Oprahs Next Chapter. The weekly series debuts 9 p.m.-11 PM EST Sunday with Winfreys visit to the New Hampshire home of Steven Tyler. Next Chapter turns the once studio-bound Winfrey into a globe-trotting interviewer who drops into the home of a Hasidic Jewish family in NY, George Lucas Skywalker Ranch in California and cook Paula Deens Georgia estate. There is also a trip with Sean Penn to Haiti, fire-walking with Tony Robbins and a planned India trip with Deepak Chopra. The injection of Winfrey on-screen, not just in the executive suite, is sorely needed, suggested one industry analyst. The biggest mistake they made is, if its the Oprah Winfrey Network, wheres Oprah? said Bill Carroll of media buying firm Katz Media. He compared OWNs Winfrey vacuum to programming the Court TV channel without courtroom shows or the Major League Baseball channel without games: After a while, viewers stop going, Carroll said. OWN has averaged about 136,000 viewers a day, a drop of 8 percent from what Discovery Health drew in 2010, although its up slightly in total viewers in prime time and has seen an 8 percent increase among women ages 25 to 54, part of the channels hoped-for demographic. Popular shows include The Judds, which ran for six episodes in April and May; Our America With Lisa Ling; and the reality series Welcome to Sweetie Pies, which attracted a strong African-American audience (prompting media reports that OWN intended to skew toward black viewers, an assertion that Discovery and Winfrey deny. It doesnt mean were going to turn into the Roots channel, Winfrey said, wryly.) Winfrey also is on-air with Oprahs Lifeclass, which draws on her talk-show archives, and Oprahs Master Class, a series of high-achiever biography specials. But, she said, she never was supposed to carry the channel on my back, and it never was supposed to be about me being on the air as much as possible. Instead, O magazine, with Winfrey as monthly cover girl and articles reflecting her better-life philosophy, is the intended model. She attributes the channels rough start to a more basic error: The lack of a library of programming for the many hours of airtime not filled by original shows, compounded by overconfidence about her market value in general. I dont understand what anybody was thinking. Youre going on the air, youve got four shows. What do you think youre going to do by Tuesday? Did they think people were going to turn on the channel just because it had my name on it? she said, sounding almost eager to cast doubt on her drawing power. People didnt turn on The Oprah Winfrey Show because my name was on it. It was absolutely topic driven every day, she said. Such modest expressions aside, Winfreys involvement clearly is key to the channels success. Shes glad to make the commitment, she said. As her longtime boyfriend Stedman Graham told her, shed be bored silly today if shed taken any lengthy break after ending her daytime show. Discovery is also in it for the long term, said spokesman Leavy, citing the three to five years that other cable channels have needed to develop audience-grabbing hits and firmly establish themselves. He declined to specify what Discovery has spent so far on the venture, calling media estimates high. But he pointed to long-term advertising contracts with major companies including Procter&Gamble, and hopes of new carriage fees from cable providers that have been airing the channel for free. Viewership that has been lower than expected, however, has meant make goods in ad time for sponsors. Winfrey, who describes herself as obsessed by ratings for the first time in her career, said shes giving OWN everything Ive got. Ive spent more energy doing this than anything Ive ever done in my whole life. With good reason. I walked in today (to OWNs offices) and felt uplifted to see my name on the door, Oprah Winfrey Network, she said. Just to be able to sit in a room with a team of people presenting you with ideas what a gift that is. It has also made OWN her ultimate responsibility. Every third week, someone new was in charge, and now shes in charge. From where I sit, this is going to be her success or her failure, said analyst Carroll. Winfrey claims to have an unlikely sounding Plan B if the channel falls short. If this doesnt work out, Im going to go into organic farming in Maui. And Im not kidding. Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Seth Rogen Joins The B Team

Developing spy comedy at DisneyThere was a period when The B Team would be a cop comedy starring Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg, before a particular A-Team triggered a title-change to Another Men. However with Another Men now come and gone, and also the A-Team a distant, tank-flying memory, The B Team has returned, this time around as a spy spoof being produced by Seth Rogen. It simply proves you cannot have a good title lower. Or something like that.This project really pre-dates individuals others, and it is title was most probably in flux there for some time. Development being as slow because it is though, it's fair game again. The storyline within this situation is all about a "key-agent" who will get kidnapped and needs to be saved by his back-up gang of scientists and techies, who most probably aren't as "top" because he is.The initial pitch towards the studio was by Derek Guiley and David Schneiderman, whose last created script was Chasing after Liberty in 2004. Rogen originates aboard like a producer at this time, but might have his eye on the starring role too. There is no reference to his usual cohort Evan Goldberg being involved right now, but we are sure it's only dependent on time.The B Team continues to be in the coming-together stage right now, without any start-date around the cards. That is fine, because Rogen greatly must give his complete focus on Jay And Seth Versus. The Apocalypse. Last we heard, that a person's due prior to the cameras in Feb.

'Mission: Impossible' illuminates early holiday B.O.

'Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol' is off and away to a good start in the holiday B.O., generating $8.six million Wednesday."Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol" easily may be the early B.O. leader this Christmas weekend, getting collected $8.six million on Wednesday for any domestic cume of $25.7 million.Vital released the film last week solely in particular-screen houses.In second place, Warner Bros.' "A Virtual Detective: A Game Title of Shadows" collected $4.3 million Wednesday, pushing its Stateside cume to $54 million in under two days of play. Sony's "The Lady Using the Dragon Tattoo," meanwhile, adopted with $3.six million from the opening day, though latenight Tuesday tests increased the pic's total cume to $5.a million.The B.O.'s current top trio are required to remain on top through Monday, however it appears "Mission" could pull ahead, for the way the Christmas Eve downturn affects the general market.Specialized photos like "Dragon Tattoo" will fare best Christmas Eve -- in the past a b -.To. trough -- than more all-audience fare, for example "Mission" and "A Virtual Detective.InchAround the family front, Fox's "Alvin and also the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked" did better ($3.5 million) than Par's new entry "The Adventures of Tintin," which bowed midweek with $2.3 million. Theater traffic to see relatives-specific films might be sluggish with the weekend, though business should increase considerably by mid-mid-day on Sunday."Alvin" to date has totalled almost $33 million locally "Tintin," $5.six million, including last week's Canadian grosses. Contact Andrew Stewart at andrew.stewart@variety.com

5 Things the 2012 SAG Nominations Might Inform You Of Oscar Season

For people people who think the SAG award nominations on Wednesday morning didn't mean greatly for Michael Fassbender, Albert Brooks and Shailene Woodley -- three presumed Oscar nominees who've been snubbed by SAG -- consider this, from Deadline's Pete Hammond: "Guild voters overlap with Academy voters and sometimes will be the most accurate barometer of where Oscar might be headed." Translation: these nominations matter! No less than greater than the NY Film Experts Circle honours might! So, what do i mean for your nominated and not nominated? Ahead, five ways the 18th annual SAG award nominations might affect Oscar season. 1. 'Bridesmaids' can be a legitimate contender Inside the summer season, Movieline's S.T. VanAirsdale wondered if 'Super 8' would create the coveted 'Inception' Exception within the Academy awards in 2012. That being: the primary one summer season blockbuster Hollywood honors getting a Best Picture nomination in order to goose audience fascination with the fledgling telecast. The standard thinking round the 'Inception' Exception changed when AMPAS dropped the most effective Picture nominees lower in the standard ten to between five-to-ten -- with various percentage election -- but possibly 2011 will still provide some audience fodder. Most assumed that 'Harry Potter as well as the Deathly Hallows Part 2' would roll onto a Best Picture nomination in the 'Return in the King'-like coronation, but knowing within the SAGs -- as well as the less-predictive critical honours -- 'Bridesmaids' appears being the main reason célèbre as soon as. 'Bridesmaids' acquired a Best Ensemble cast nom from SAG, opposite assumed Academy Award heavy-gamers 'The Help,' 'The Artist,' 'Midnight in Paris' and 'The Descendants,' and before thought-to-be faves like 'Moneyball' and 'Hugo.' Meanwhile co-star Melissa McCarthy was nominated inside the Supporting Actress category, before 'Descendants' star Shailene Woodley. Will the actors' branch carry this now-classic romcom for the Kodak Theater? Don't wager against it happening. 2. 'War Horse' isn't an stars movie, so it must be OK... Future 'War Horse' supporters shouldn't be too upset in regards to the Steven Spielberg film being excluded within the SAG nominations. Ultimately, despite a cast of enjoyable talent (Tom Hiddleston, Emily Watson, Peter Mullan, Jeremy Irvine, Benedict Cumberbatch, Toby Kebbell), the main character in 'War Horse' is Joey ... the equine. Unless of course obviously SAG features a secret equine branch where Mr. Erection dysfunction as well as the equine from 'Hot to Trot' spend some time, that certain wasn't inside the cards. 3. ... but 'Hugo,' 'The Girl While using Dragon Tattoo' and 'Extremely Noisy and very Close' may not Pointless to push the strain button at this time around, nevertheless the SAG nominations probably weren't the most effective factor for 'Hugo' and Scott Rudin's twosome, 'The Girl While using Dragon Tattoo' and 'Extremely Noisy and very Close.' In the Best Picture perspective, 'Hugo' ought to be solid gold -- ultimately, its support will vary from Company company directors Guild (for Martin Scorsese), the Producers Guild (for Graham King) and many types of the below-the-card inserts (for editor Thelma Schoonmaker, cinematographer Robert Richardson and production designer Dante Ferretti). 'Dragon Tattoo' and 'Extremely Noisy,' however, certainly are a different story: no Rooney Mara (shocking, since she's so brilliant), no Tom Hanks or Sandra Bullock, no ensemble nods. At this time around, neither of individuals films appear to be with the honours-circuit radar. This can be a problem no embargo will fix. 4. 'Drive' takes a turbo boost Whither 'Drive'? Most likely probably the most-discussed film of September has fans all over the critical community, then one sure-fire bit of Oscar bait in Albert Brooks's brilliant supporting turn just like a gangster susceptible to stabbing people with forks. Roughly it absolutely was thought. Brooks's snub -- for either Armie Hammer, oddly for 'J. Edgar,' or Jonah Hill for 'Moneyball,' according to your prejudices -- was easily most likely probably the most surprising in the morning, if possibly because it was assumed the 'Drive' star would no less than finish since the unofficial runner-around Christopher Plummer within the Oscars. Why no SAG passion for Brooks? Exactly why is not FilmDistrict pushing 'Drive' more in the weak year if the could easily grab nominations for top Picture, Director, Supporting Actor, Cinematography, Editing and Score? Hopefully, situation a blip and Brooks can get the nomination he so highly warrants come The month of the month of january. That's certainly what Team 'Drive' thinks, just like a publicist sent this email out (via Movieline) right after the snub: "We appreciate all of your ongoing support of DRIVE and coverage in the film, especially following this morning's SAG noms. Thanks for your shout-outs to Albert Brooks on Twitter too as with your analyses in the SAG nominations if this involves his not recognized today, but we remain sure that the Supporting Actor race still boils lower with a two-guy showdown between Albert and Christopher Plummer." Hopefully! 5. Nobody knows anything Remember everything products you simply read? Not a way! Since the great William Goldman once mentioned of Hollywood, "Nobody knows anything." Never is always that more true throughout Oscar season. So, just in case your a Brooks pom-pom waver or sporting a Fassboner for Michael Fassbender's snubbed performance in 'Shame,' don't get worried there's still the required time to enable them to end up among the candidate of 2012 Oscar nominees. Happy going for a chance! EARLIER: 'The Help,' 'The Artist' and 'Bridesmaids' Lead 2012 SAG Award Nominations [Photo: FilmDistrict] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook

Weekend Box Office: 'New Year's Eve' Drops the Ball, Wins Anyway

'New Year's Eve' was designed to bring the party a few days ago, however it performed a lot more like a brand new Year's Day hangover. It mustered an believed $13.7 million, about 50 % what it really was likely to earn. Still, on probably the most lackluster box office weekends all seasons, which was enough for any victory. 'New Year's Eve' was director Garry Marshall's follow-as much as his similar holiday-designed, all-star ensemble romantic comedy 'Valentine's Day,' which first showed having a huge $56 million two Februarys ago. Obviously, which was around the greatest date weekend of the season it was not (plus, it had the still-strong ''The Twilight Saga: Breaking Beginning Part 1' to deal with for female ticketbuyers). Nobody expected it to spread out as large as 'Valentine's Day,' but many expected a dent around half the dimensions, not really a mere 4th the dimensions. Aside from the 'Twilight' vampires of the underworld, blame scathing reviews and poor word-of-mouth. Opening in second place, 'The Sitter' also carried out below its already underwhelming anticipation. Jonah Hill hasn't transported a comedy simply by themself, and knowing through the mild reception for that recent 'A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas,' this is not a time period of year having a strong marketplace for raunchy comedies. So commentators predicted a dent close to $12 to $13 million, but Sunday estimations arrived just $10. million. Director David Gordon Eco-friendly, that has yet to restore the levels of 'Pineapple Express,' now likes the dubious distinction of getting launched two flops this season (another was this spring's 'Your Highness'). After three weekends atop the chart, 'Breaking Dawn' finally ended up to 3rd place, by having an believed $7.9 million. A decline of 52 percent from the other day is not that unusual for any four-week-old blockbuster. The supernatural romance has gained $259.5 million in The United States up to now. 'The Muppets' also dropped two spots, lower to 4th place by having an believed take of $7.a million. That signifies a modest decline of 32 percent within the movie's third weekend. Up to now, Kermit & Co. are seeing eco-friendly towards the tune of $65.8 million. The only real Christmas-designed movie presently playing, 'Arthur Christmas,' saw the littlest decline among wide-release movies, just 11 percent in the third weekend. At No. 5, it gained an believed $6.six million, for any three-week total of $33.5 million. Also opening now were two movies that did perfectly in limited release, based on studio estimations. Charlize Theron's black comedy 'Young Adult' gained a massive $40,000 per screen on eight screens (in comparison, 'New Year's Eve came $3,505 per screen), and it is total debut of $320,000 arrived it at No. 15 around the chart. One notch below was Gary Oldman's espionage thriller 'Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy,' which gained a much more astonishing $75,250 per screen at four venues, for any total of $301,000. Supporting well in limited release were 'The Artist' (up 38 percent now with the help of 10 screens, for any total of 16, having a per-screen average of $18,250 as well as an believed weekend take of $292,000) and 'Shame' (lower just 21 percent, for an believed $276,000, or $13,143 per screen). All potential year-finish honours challengers, these films should continue doing well because they expand into wider release. Overall, the very best 12 movies gained just $69.7 million a few days ago, marking the 3rd straight week of decreasing box office. Grosses for that year tend to be more than 3 % below where these were this time around last year ($9.5 billion, in comparison to $9.8 billion), but that gap could widen if the month is constantly on the see such lackluster performance. 'New Year's Eve' - Trailer No. 2 The entire top ten: 1. 'New Year's Eve,' $13.7 million (3,505 screens), era 2. 'The Sitter,' $10. million (2,750), era 3. 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Beginning Part 1,' $7.9 million (3,604), $259.5 million total 4. 'The Muppets,' $7.a million (3,328), $65.8 million 5. 'Arthur Christmas,' $6.six million (3,272), $33.5 million 6. 'Hugo,' $6.a million (2,608) $33.5 million 7. 'The Descendants,' $4.8 million (876), $23.six million 8. 'Happy Ft Two,' $3.8 million (2,840), $56.9 million 9. 'Jack and Jill,' $3.two million (2,787), $68.six million 10. 'Immortals,' $2,4 million (2,286), $79.9 million [Photos: Warner Bros. ('New Year's Eve'), twentieth century Fox ('The Sitter'), Vital ('Young Adult')] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook Follow Gary Susman on Twitter: @garysusman

Sinead OConnor Weds In Pink Cadillac In Las vegas

First Released: December 9, 2011 10:50 AM EST Credit: Off-shore Coast News Vegas, Nev. -- Caption Sinead OConnor marries Craig Herridge in the Little Whitened Wedding Chapel in Vegas on December 8, 2011Sinead OConnor got married in true Vegas style on Thursday at the back of a pink Cadillac in the same chapel where Britney Warrior spears and Elvis also got married. Just like the singer introduced on her behalf website on Wednesday, she tied the knot with Craig Herridge, a counselor, on her behalf 45th birthday. The bride to be used an easy pink low-cut dress that displayed her many tats and transported some red-colored roses. Your daughter's groom carried a gray suit having a light pink shirt to complement Sineads dress. The pair passionately kissed and cuddled together with wiping away a couple of tears at the back of the classic vehicle while swapping vows. The Nothing Compares 2 U singer told photography enthusiasts that they virtually no time for any honeymoon, but selected Las Vegas for his or her wedding since it was rock 'n roll. Following the ceremony, the pair spent the evening in a Vegas area hotel. This marks the performers 4th marriage. She divorced longtime friend and collaborator Steve Cooney in April after being together just for eight several weeks. Sinead, that has four children from previous associations, get married music producer John Reynolds in 1989 and journalist Nicholas Sommerlad in 2001. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.